The summer trip you planned is finally here and you are ready to explore everything your destination has to offer. The hotel is booked, your plane fare is paid, you’ve booked parking at Hobby Airport with us, and you are ready to embark on a new adventure! The home-cooked meals may be missed, but we have you covered on all things eating abroad so your summer trip is one to remember. 

We want to make sure your trip is memorable and enjoyable. The horror stories of food poisoning are easily preventable with our easy to follow recommendations.

Always Plan Ahead

Before your flight is booked along with your hotel it is important to make sure that you do your research. In low-income destinations, there are greater chances of food poisoning, even if you are at a five-star hotel. According to The Academy of Dietetics, food poisoning issues stem from, “unclean or unsafe water supply, poor personal hygiene, and subpar food production and storage conditions”. In order to mitigate these issues investigating the water supply prior to arrival is essential. 

In the event that you do become ill, also make sure that there are medical care offices accessible to you. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travelers’ Health and U.S. Department of State Travel Information are two excellent resources The Academy of Dietetics recommends.

Visit a Health Care Provider Before you Go

You may be thinking, why do I need to go to the doctor before my trip? One of the most important reasons to visit the doctor is to find out about what vaccines you will need. Being proactive about your health can prevent a serious health issue later on. Additionally, the advisement of your physician is encouraged, that way you will not have to rely on international medications. Preparation before you leave you can also reduce the chance of gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, heartburn or gas. 

Know your Water Sources

Another important way to ensure you reduce your chances of illness during your trip is to make sure your beverages come from sealed containers. Drinking water from the tap can contain amoebas, parasites, and viruses that you don’t want to be apart of your summer vacation. A good rule of thumb is if you have to ask someone if the water is safe, do not drink it!

Use Caution with Food Choices 

Although it may be tempting to venture off and try authentic local foods from street corners you may want to reconsider. While there are many ways to experience authentic meals during your experience abroad it is important to use caution when doing so. The Academy of Dietetics mentions avoiding raw meat, fish, shellfish, and eggs. 

Additionally, the FDA advises not to consume raw produce including salads and fruits without protective exteriors. Avoiding these produce items are important because the water they are rinsed with could be contaminated. Foods left at room temperature should also be avoided such as buffet-style food that could be left out at unsafe temperatures. 

Safe Food Options

There are important things to make sure you do not eat on your summer vacation, but that does not mean you cannot find delicious options to enjoy. The FDA mentions safe options which include well-cooked meat, poultry, and fish, and dairy from large commercial dairies. Fruits with protective exteriors such as bananas and citrus fruits are also safe to consume. Foods that are best to consume are foods that are hot and well cooked or cold food not at room temperature.  

Hygiene is Key 

Eating the right foods while abroad can reduce your chances of your summer vacation being cut short due to food contamination. However, hygiene is also an important factor to make sure you are healthy for the duration of your trip. Basic cleanliness by regularly washing your hands can prevent the transfer of foodborne illness, especially before eating and after using the restroom. In the event that you do not have access to warm water and soap make sure you bring an alcohol-based sanitizer that is easily accessible when you need it.

The summer travel season is here! Make your culinary adventure the experience of a lifetime with the help of our Eating Abroad recommendations.